Chef Ashley Reid and HR practitioner Dominic Mitchell tied the knot on Sunday, May 7, 2023 at Golden Castle Villa and Spa in Montego Bay. It was the culmination of a courtship founded on friendship and mutual respect.

Journey

Ashley easily recalled the exact moment her 10-year friendship with Dominic commenced. “We were both unable to get earlier movie tickets and spent the next two hours in conversation,” she shared with Tuesday Style Vows (TSV). Indeed, Cupid’s arrow might have been quivering but not yet ready to be released. Ashley was in no rush and, by her own admission, played hard to get.

“It was important to really get to know him,” she admitted.” Slowly but surely they bonded over their mutual interests: a love for God, family, fitness, enjoying good movies, water sports and studying for shared Hospitality and Tourism Management courses at the University of Technology (UTech), Jamaica.

In time, they met each other’s family. This could be deeemed a turning point in the relationship, as Ashley noted Dominic’s devotion and love for his mum and sister. “It showed his gentleman attributes,” she said.

The relationship deepened when Dominic spent a few years studying overseas. Friendship soon turned into love. The proposal came during a family reunion in Negril on July 10, 2022 as the two reminisced on the past and anticipated the future. Ashley said ‘Yes!’

The ceremony

The exchange of vows took place on Sunday, May 7, 2023 at the Golden Castle Villa and Spa. Watched by some 50 close friends and family Ashley made her walk up the aisle on the arm of her dad Donald Reid to Major’s hit song, Why I Love You. Her off-the-shoulder mermaid silhouette wedding gown from Helen G Bridal Boutique made quite the statement while the bouquet’s flower selection, inspired by her culinary background, included a mix of herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley and sage), white roses, baby’s-breath, eucalyptus, and palms. The ceremony’s rustic theme featured hues of olive green, burnt orange, mustard and tan. The bride’s sister Lauren Watkis was given wedding planning duty, while Shenique England handled execution on the day, as well as décor.

To set the tone for the proceedings, friend of the bride Sue-Ann Berry read a passage of scripture, followed by the bridegroom’s uncle Derrick Palmer leading the attendees in prayer. Wedding officiant Reverend Astor Carlyle then guided the couple through the vows and exchange of rings.

There was nary a dry eye as bridesmaid Alisa Magnus sang Like I’m Gonna Lose You, by Meghan Trainor and John Legend, while the couple signed the register.

Officially husband and wife Mr & Mrs Dominic Mitchell exited to Before I Let Go by Frankie Beverly & The Butlers and Maze.

The reception

The arrival of the bridal party to a mash-up of afrobeats signalled an evening of high energy by the property’s poolside. The newly-weds then made their entrance to
Shot By Love from Protoje featuring Toi.

Other highlights included heartfelt toasts, the couple’s first dance to the Calum Scott and Leona Lewis duet, You Are The Reason, and a choreographed routine that got guests joining them on the dance floor.

Catering was courtesy of the Golden Castle Villa and Spa team, with a wedding cake by Jhane Allen from Baked Bliss JA. Dessert offerings included delectable cupcakes, sugar cookies and glazed donuts. There was too, a mimosa wall, a nod to the couple’s hospitality studies.

After the celebrations the newly-weds honeymooned in Punta Cana, Santo Domingo.